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#DisneyFamilia: Vacation Tips From Sascha Schmidt | Walt Disney World View the full article

Tomorrow the recently enhanced Disney Fantasy departs on her first-ever Southern Caribbean cruise, with back-to-back 10- and 11-night cruises from Port Canaveral. In honor of these special voyages, last week I shared highlights of sun-soaked adventures in Aruba, and today I’ll give you suggestions for fun in Curaçao. Like Aruba, the island of Curaçao is located in the Southern Caribbean Sea near the coast of Venezuela. It is a vibrant oasis famous for its beaches, pristine diving and snorkeling, rich culture and European architecture. Whether you choose to have a beach day or stretch your legs exploring other parts of the island, we have the perfect Port Adventure for your family. Here are just a few … City Walking Tour – Curaçao’s capital, Willemstad, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that features colorful Dutch buildings, museums, monuments, restaurants and shops. This guided tour takes you on an enlightening stroll through the city, including Rif Fort, Fort Amsterdam, the Queen Emma floating bridge and the picturesque floating marketplace. A highlight of the tour is a visit to the Curaçao Maritime Museum where you can discover more than 500 years of the island’s maritime history. Discover Curaçao Island Tour – This excursion also visits the Curaçao Maritime Museum, followed by exciting adventures around the island. One stop is at the spectacular Hato Caves, a dramatic collection of centuries-old grottos filled with stalactites, stalagmites and crystal-clear pools. Another destination is the Chobolobo Liqueur Factory where you can taste Blue Curacao liqueur and see how it is made. Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy magnificent views during scenic drives around the island paradise. Coastal and Country Drive – Get your camera ready! This Port Adventure showcases the beauty of Curaçao with visits to some of the area’s stunning locales, including Boca Tabla National Park, Jan Kok salt lakes and one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. You’ll also stop at Kas di Pal’I Maishi, an interactive museum where you’ll learn about life in Curacao from days past and enjoy a traditional song and dance demonstration. Check out my previous posts featuring Southern Caribbean destinations, and remember, when the ship’s in port, venture ashore! Escape to Aruba with Disney Cruise Line Enjoying Barbados with Disney Cruise Line Adventures in Martinique with Disney Cruise Line Experiencing St. Kitts with Disney Cruise Line Exploring Tortola with Disney Cruise Line View the full article

Five years ago this week, Cars Land officially opened at Disney California Adventure park. To celebrate, we are hosting two Artist Showcase events at Ramone’s House of Body Art on June 17 and 24. I recently spoke with Lisa Bergman, merchandise product developer for WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District, about the Disney-Pixar’s “Cars”-inspired artwork being showcased. “We are delighted to feature some of our WonderGround Gallery artists at Cars Land this month,” exclaimed Lisa. “Each artist will offer their own interpretation of the sights or characters found in this wonderfully immersive land. The best part about these events is our guests can meet these talented artists. These events are another fun way to celebrate an exciting month that starts with the release of Disney-Pixar’s ‘Cars 3’ in theaters on June 16.” On June 17, guests can meet Jerrod Maruyama and Joey Chou from 2 to 4 p.m. Jerrod’s work (above left) is titled, “Cutest Little Town in Carburetor County,” while Joey’s art (above right) is called, “Race Around Radiator Springs.” Jeff Granito (“Cruising to Ka-Chow”), Max Grundy (“Flomotion”), Michael Murphy (“Cozy Cone Arrival”), and Michelle Bickford will appear on June 24 from 2 to 4 p.m. Michelle will offer two pieces – “New Wheels!” (shown above) and “Cars Land Panorama” (the latter is an one-of-a-kind original piece of artwork). For all Artist Showcase events, there is a limit of two items signed per artist, per guest. We kindly ask guests do not bring personal items to be signed. Appearances are subject to time and availability and are not guaranteed. Separate admission is required to enter Disney California Adventure park. While visiting Ramone’s House of Body Art, I also invite you to check out some of the newest Cars Land and Radiator Springs Racers products. Guests will find apparel and accessories for adults and kids including a new Radiator Springs Racers logo pin. View the full article

“We’re all mad here…” But where, exactly is “here,” you ask? Why, it’s just outside Gasparilla Island Grill at the Grand Floridian Resort, which has brought back the Gone Mad Party on Wednesdays during the month of June! Gone Mad Party sign This Alice in Wonderland-themed shindig made its limited-run debut in 2016, and its return gives guests the opportunity to view the new Happily Ever After Fireworks Spectacular from the Grill’s outdoor seating area from 7:00 – 9:30 pm. Happily Ever After True, the fireworks don’t last two and a half hours , so music and dancing otherwise help to set the scene, along with whimsical furniture all the way from the west coast (originally used at the Mad T Party in Disneyland)! Mad T Party Seating While the party itself is free, drinks and eats are available for an additional charge. And with extra fun eats, you’ll want to plan accordingly for snacks and sips! Rapunzel Cupcakes for Gone Mad Party Cinderella Cupcakes for Gone Mad Party Like last year, you don’t need to be a Grand Floridian Resort guest to attend, and no reservation is required. However, this little guideline is still a good idea: it is best to call the Grand Floridian Resort ahead of time (or stop by the front desk) to ensure that the party is taking place on your visit, as it can be cancelled due to inclement weather. And you might want to show up a little early, as space is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Would you like to attend the Gone Mad Party? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News: “Gone Mad” Wishes Fireworks Party Debuts at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa News: Wishes Dessert Party Debuts at Narcoossee’s in Disney World’s Grand Floridian Resort News: Frozen Ever After Sparkling Dessert Party with Fireworks Viewing Coming to Epcot View the full article

This summer, when you head on down the highway to Disney California Adventure park, you’ll be able to meet one of the newest stars from Disney·Pixar’s “Cars 3,” Cruz Ramirez. Cruz is joining Lightning McQueen and Mater in Cars Land, starting today. She’ll also be taking a summer road trip down to the Sunshine State, stopping in on Pixar Place at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. In Disney·Pixar’s “Cars 3,” Cruz Ramirez is a top-notch technician at the Rusteze Racing Center where she’s assigned to train the team’s talented rookies. Cruz always had racing dreams of her own, but it isn’t until she meets Lightning McQueen that she realizes her passion to compete is still there. Now she’ll finally get the chance to see if she’s got what it takes to win. Race out to catch “Cars 3” in theaters in 3D today, and look for Cruz Ramirez this summer as she pays a visit to Disney California Adventure park and Disney’s Hollywood Studios! View the full article

It’s time for another visit to Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe in Disneyland Park! Jolly Holiday Entrance Jolly Holiday pays tribute to everyone’s favorite governess, Mary Poppins, and her merry band of whimsical creatures. (See the penguin on top of the sign? ) Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe Sign This bright and cheerful spot blends in perfectly with the rest of Main Street, U.S.A. A first time visitor to Disneyland might never guess that Jolly Holiday is a fairly recent addition, but even though it’s relatively new, it has quickly become one of my favorite places to visit when I’m in Disneyland. Light breakfast, lunch, and dinner options can be spotted on the menus, but the cafe’s sweet spot — pun intended — is their iconic bakery treats. Cookies, cupcakes, and other pastries beckon from the moment you step into the shop. Jolly Holiday Bakery Cases The most difficult thing about visiting Jolly Holiday is deciding what to get. Especially since so many items in that case receive seasonal makeovers! Take, for instance, this adorable springtime mini Strawberry Bundt Cake. The cake itself is vanilla, and there’s a sweet glazed topping. Pink chocolate curls and a glazed strawberry give a hint as to what’s inside. Strawberry Bundt Cake And THAT is thick strawberry filling — a lot like strawberry pie! It’s bright and tasty, with little bits of strawberry mixed in as well. It is a classic combination befitting the location. Strawberry Bundt Cake — Cross Section Another fruit-and-cake combo comes in the form of this little beauty: the Chocolate Raspberry Cupcake. Topping the chocolate cake is a healthy swirl of chocolate mousse underneath a shiny chocolate shell. Next? It’s decorated with (believe it!) MORE chocolate: curls of milk and white chocolate, two thin shavings of dark chocolate, and a sunny little bright orange chocolate disc. A plump raspberry is the finishing touch. Chocolate Raspberry Cupcake Clearly, there is a lot going on here… but there is STILL more than meets the eye. Now, the cross-section is a bit messy (the wrapper is similar to those at Be Our Guest in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, which are made by the devil and are basically impossible to remove easily), but you can see that the cupcake is filled with vanilla frosting and (I think) cherry filling. And you can at last get a glimpse of that mousse-like frosting. Chocolate Raspberry Cupcake — Inside This one may be a little busy for some, and all that chocolate was really too much for my liking. But if you’re a chocoholic, have at it. Now, you know my ability to resist anything Mickey-shaped is practically zilch, so obviously I had to have the next (gorgeous!) treat: the now iconic Raspberry Rose Mickey Macaron. From those Mickey ears to the bright red color to the artsy gold brushstroke, this Macaron is among the prettiest I’ve seen. Raspberry Rose Mickey Macaron But while the macarons and raspberries are great, the whole “rose-flavored” filling thing fell super flat with me. Honestly, it tasted like cleaning products. I KNOW some of you absolutely love this, but I just couldn’t get into it. No, it’s not that I couldn’t get into it…I could barely finish the first bite. So…proceed with caution knowing that it’s love or hate with this one. Mickey Macaron — Inside Finally, the Rainbow Sprinkles Whoopie Pie from Jolly Holiday looks like a classic whoopie pie, with the addition of fun, colorful, shimmery (and even a little fancy) rainbow sprinkles dotting the white chocolate mousse. Whoopie Pie I’m happy to say that the ratio of mousse to cake is just right. Whoopie Pie — Inside You can find whoopie pies, of course, on both costs, with an array of specialty-topped mini Whoopie Pies at Sweet Spells in Hollywood Studios and other spots. But I always appreciate how Jolly Holiday offers the classic style, with just a hint of a twist for the respective season. (The peanut butter one is still my favorite!) Just like the Blue Ribbon Bakery back in the day, I still can’t leave Jolly Holiday without picking up a classic and iconic Matterhorn Macaroon. You shouldn’t either, and here’s why: it starts with that mountainous, super moist coconut macaroon. See how it’s all golden ridges and pale valleys? Matterhorn Macaroon Next is the thick layer of white chocolate, hardened into a dense snow pack. Finally, for good, crunchy measure, there are a few sugary, snowy chunks on top. There’s sort of no way to start eating this except to take a big ol’ bite to get the view from the top and check out — plus enjoy — the chewy, buttery, sweet macaroon. Matterhorn Macaroon — Inside It’s a must-eat at Jolly Holiday. Unless, of course, you’d rather try it on top of a donut. Find out where by clicking here! Honestly, it almost doesn’t matter whether you go for the classic Matterhorn Macaroon or one of the seasonal switcheroos. Just get yourself to Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe and try a treat straight out of the bakery case. And if you happen upon a new seasonal option, be sure to give us a hashtag shoutout at #disneyfoodblog. We’d love to feature your shot on our Instagram! What’s your favorite Disneyland bakery treat? Tell us about it in the comments below! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News! A Spoonful of Sugar and Other Limited Time Treats Come to Disneyland’s Jolly Holiday Bakery Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe Debuts New Treats and Dishes Dining in Disneyland: Seasonal Treats at Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe View the full article

What a celebration in Shanghai last night as Shanghai Disneyland capped an incredible first year, welcoming more than 11 million guests since its historic June 2016 opening! Yesterday Shanghai Disney Resort marked its first anniversary, as floating lanterns representing good fortune for the past, present and future hovered above Shanghai Disneyland during a magical nighttime celebration at Enchanted Storybook Castle, commemorating the resort’s historic anniversary and tremendous popularity with the people of mainland China. “Shanghai Disney Resort’s first anniversary is cause for great celebration for everyone involved in bringing this spectacular dream to life,” said Bob Iger, chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company. “We’re grateful to the people of China for making this unique destination a tremendous success — more than 11 million guests have already visited, and we look forward to welcoming many more in the years to come.” Guests were entertained by the Mandarin version of “When You Wish Upon a Star,” as a montage of photos and videos highlighting events of the first year at Shanghai Disney Resort were projected on the façade of Enchanted Storybook Castle, as well as actual guest videos and images of magical memories from their visits to the authentically Disney, distinctly Chinese destination. Shanghai Disneyland has proved to be enormously popular with guests from mainland China and abroad, and the resort has already announced its first post-opening expansion, a new immersive land themed to the Toy Story franchise that is set to open in 2018. The innovative attractions and entertainment at Shanghai Disneyland have earned top honors from across the theme park industry over the past year, including the Themed Entertainment Association, International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, Visual Effects Society and China Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions. Shanghai Disney Resort was one of the most ambitious projects in the history of The Walt Disney Company. One year ago today, the wonder and imagination of Disney greeted the people of China in magical new ways as the gates opened to Shanghai Disneyland, a theme park like no other with the biggest, tallest castle in any Disney park, the first pirate-themed land and Disney’s most technologically advanced park to date. Shanghai Disney Resort is filled with immersive Disney storytelling, thrilling attractions, spectacular live entertainment and memory-making experiences designed to inspire and delight Chinese guests. The world-class vacation destination includes a magical theme park with six themed lands, two imaginatively designed hotels, a Disneytown shopping and dining district, and Wishing Star Park recreational area. Are you planning a trip to Shanghai Disney Resort? Let us know what you’d like to experience in the comments below. View the full article

Shanghai Disneyland welcomed more than 11 million guests in its first year of operation, the company said Friday. Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger was on hand Friday in China to celebrate the first anniversary of the Shanghai Disney Resort, which includes the Shanghai Disneyland theme park. "Shanghai... View the full article

There are so many incredible stories of fathers in nature – from young marmosets and tamarins who spend most of their time clinging to dad, to Asian-clawed otters that teach their pups to swim and play. Then there are the males that truly go above and beyond. Did you know that male angelfish carry their eggs inside their mouths, not eating for as many as 30 days, to protect their offspring? See the video below to learn about some truly fascinating dads, and visit DisneyAnimals.com to learn more about the animals at the Walt Disney World Resort. And Happy Father’s Day! View the full article

The idea of time being priceless becomes quite literal at the Luxury of Time by Diamonds International shop at Disney Springs, where a new offer gifts a timepiece to Disney Vacation Club Members with no purchase necessary. Presented in 2017 as part of Membership Magic Ever After, this special offer invites members to show their valid Membership Card and photo ID when trying on any watch at store (located in the Town Center neighborhood of Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort) to receive a complimentary watch while supplies last. Note that this upscale boutique’s designer watches offer a 10 percent member discount off regular prices, while its fine jewelry offers a 20 percent member discount off regular prices. View the full article

More than 25 years ago, actress Paige O’Hara lent her voice to one of the most beloved Disney princesses of all time – Belle, in the 1991 film “Beauty and the Beast.” Paige, who was awarded with Disney Legend status in 2011, recently visited Magic Kingdom Park where she met up with Belle and Beast, and shared some of her favorite Disney memories with us. Among her fondest moments were the days that led up to the film’s release, which were packed with fun Disney appearances. Paige also shared her thoughts on why the character of Belle is still so beloved to this day. Any guesses what her favorite attraction is? It may surprise you! Check out the video above to find out. To hear what other celebrities are saying about their Disney experiences, be sure to check out the videos below: Tina Fey Conquers Expedition Everest! ‘Little Mermaid’ Voice Actress Jodi Benson Visits New Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park ‘The Little Mermaid’ Star Pat Carroll Visits Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid at Walt Disney World Resort View the full article

To say Disney’s new Pandora – The World of Avatar is popular, is the understatement of the summer. Guests have been lining up to experience the exotic world – and eager to introduce their kids to the world of James Cameron’s iconic film AVATAR. But the beauty of this world is that you don’t need to be an Avatar fan or a grownup to enjoy its beauty, splendor and playfulness. With its colorful landscape, awe-inspiring floating mountains and fun eats, it’s fit for explorers of all ages. So for families with preschoolers, here’s my must-sees when visiting Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom: One of the first things you encounter when you cross the bridge onto the Valley of Mo’ara is a giant plant called a Flaska Reclinata. Youngsters will squeal when they pound on the belly of the funky pink plant and watch as spores spew from its center – releasing steam. Youngsters can thump on drums formed from roots and natural materials to create rhythms in an interactive drum circle. And several times a day there’s a 15-minute musical performance that brings big energy to Pandora while guests sing and dance along to the beat. There’s healthful bounty at Satu’li Canteen, but kids won’t be disappointed with cool, alien-looking food. Cheeseburgers are called pods (steamed pods stuffed with ground beef, ketchup, cheese, etc.) and there are hot dogs wrapped in dough. And the glistening desserts won’t disappoint. Little ones can set sail through a calm bioluminescent forest on Na’vi River Journey. Be sure to you look all around and spot the glowing blue plant leaves overhead that reveal the footprints of small animals scurrying across the leaves. And a bonus for parents – it’s indoors and air conditioned. The day isn’t complete without a stop in Windtraders to check out all the fun merchandise. Be sure to hit the bead bar where kids can craft Na’vi-inspired necklaces using feathers and beads. View the full article

'Cars 3' Meet-Up | Walt Disney World View the full article

Hi there! I’m Joshua, the new Disneyland Resort Chief Photographer. Like my predecessors and counterparts at Disney Parks around the world, I’ll be contributing regular photography posts to the Disney Parks Blog. It’s my sincere hope that the pictures and stories I share make you smile. With that said, here we go … From whirling sparkers to Tinker Bell soaring over Sleeping Beauty Castle, Disneyland park fireworks have always knocked my socks off. Watching last Monday’s performance of the “Remember … Dreams Come True” fireworks spectacular inspired two questions: How complicated would it be to capture the entire show in a single exposure, and is that even possible? Theoretically, all I’d need to do is calculate an approximate combination of exposure settings and neutral density (ND) filter strength and fine-tune the equation over 2-3 nights. For the uninitiated, just think of an ND filter as a tinted window for your lens that cuts down on the light hitting the sensor (or film) so you can expose longer without blowing out bright details. There’s more than one way to pull off what I accomplished last week, but here’s how I shot the entire “Remember … Dreams Come True” fireworks spectacular in a single exposure: I used a 9-stop ND filter. My settings were: ISO 100, f/22, auto white balance, and shutter in bulb mode. I triggered the shutter with a remote as soon as the street lamps went dim and terminated the exposure immediately after the finale. I pre-set the camera’s long exposure noise reduction feature to tone down or eliminate “hot pixels.” Hot pixels are bright dots that appear on digital pictures as the result of the camera sensor overheating during long exposures. Using this function added about 15 minutes to the image write-time. My background is in photojournalism, so getting pictures right, in-camera, and with minimal or no lab work is important to me. That challenge and commitment to photographic ethics makes the work more fun and, in my mind, a little more special. In the interest of full disclosure, I used Photoshop to remove any hot pixels the camera software missed. I also made a slight curves adjustment to boost the castle mid-tones. One thing I learned on this shoot is that the vertical blasts often cross sight lines with the aerial bursts. It’s something folks might not ever think about because neither effect is choreographed to occur simultaneously. So, if at first glance it feels like something is missing … take a closer look. It’s all there. View the full article

Whether Dad is into jazz, customized toy race cars, haute (hat) couture or just good grub, he and the rest of the family will find something make Father’s Day extra special this weekend in the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort. Does Dad look good in a fedora? More of an Indiana Jones kind of guy? He can get 20 percent off his pick Friday through Saturday, June 16-18, at Chapel Hats. Is it a good weekend for auto racing? It’s always a good weekend for auto racing! Take Dad to RideMakerz in Downtown Disney District on Saturday or Sunday, build your ride, and Dad can build a second ride for free! If Dad grooves to New Orleans Jazz, look into the regular Sunday Brunch Fest, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen. Brunch features New Orleans-inspired cuisine, of course, plus live entertainment from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and Louisiana-brewed Abita beer on tap. June 16 to 18, Tortilla Jo’s is celebrating Dad with all his favorite flavors in El Papi’s Fajitas – grilled steak and chicken, Mexican shrimp and chorizo, Michoacan-style carnitas, grilled nopales, roasted cebollitas and bell peppers, queso ranchero and house-made molcajete salsa. Uva Bar celebrates throughout the month with a special Father’s Day sandwich: the Big Daddy Burger with their signature beef blend, applewood bacon, fried egg, avocado, white cheddar, tomato, lettuce, secret sauce and brioche bun. Dad may want to pair it with a Sierra Nevada Tropical Torpedo, combining hops with essence of mango, papaya and passion fruit. At the ESPN Zone on Sunday, there will be two Father’s Day specials created especially for the day: a Korean-style burger made with grass-fed beef, sambal aioli, pulled pork BBQ sauce, kimchi and tempura-fried avocados or, for the bigger appetite, the Father’s Day Grill Out: smoked brisket, smoked pork ribs, grilled beer-braised bratwurst sausage and street-style corn. Cocktail service will be available throughout the day in the ESPN Zone’s Patio lounge, with seating on a first come, first served basis. Naples Ristorante e Pizzeria offers The Godfather Pizza on Saturday and Sunday: pepperoni, Italian sausage, meatball, green peppers, mushrooms, red onion, mozzarella and tomato sauce. When dinnertime comes around, Catal tempts Dad with a three-course prime rib dinner, Sunday only. If he is in more of a snacking mood, you could take him to Wetzel’s Pretzels Saturday or Sunday, where buying a pretzel and a drink will get him a free pretzel dog. Or, if he has more of a sweet tooth, get him a DAD Box at Sprinkles, available Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The DAD box is loaded with his favorite treats, including Red Velvet, Salty Caramel, Black & White and Vanilla Milk Chocolate. Lots to do, and lots to eat at Downtown Disney District this Father’s Day weekend, but I’m sure Dad has the energy for it. After all, energy is a big part of what fatherhood is about. View the full article

At the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival, the Crew from The Chew once again offered a custom menu for the event. And we expect to see them again this year at the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival! The Chew Collective Booth The event runs a record 75 days this year, and for the first time ever, will begin in August! Mark your calendars for August 31-November 13! While we can’t wait to see all of the new dishes that will debut at this year’s Marketplace Booths, we’re taking a look back at some of our favorite dishes from last year, like The Chew’s Ricotta and Zucchini Ravioli with Rustic Tomato Sauce. Ricotta and Zucchini Ravioli with Rustic Tomato Sauce The fresh flavors of this vegetarian dish wowed us, and we love that we can recreate it at home with this handy recipe! The Chew’s Ricotta and Zucchini Ravioli with Tomato Sauce THE Chew Collective Marketplace: 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Serves 6 Ingredients: For Ricotta and Zucchini Ravioli: 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for drizzling 1 small red onion, finely diced 1 teaspoon chili flakes 2 zucchini, grated, excess liquid squeezed out 2 cups ricotta 1/3 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano, plus more for serving 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg 1 pound pasta sheets Fresh basil, for garnish Coarse salt, freshly ground black pepper, to taste Semolina For Tomato Sauce: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced 2 (28 ounce) cans whole peeled tomatoes, crushed Coarse salt, freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1/2 cup roughly torn basil leaves Instructions: For Ravioli: 1. Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium hat. Add onion and chili flakes and season with salt, then cook until tender, about 6-8 minutes. 2. Meanwhile, add zucchini to a large bowl with the ricotta and Parmigiano. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir in sautéed onion mixture. 3. Lay out a sheet of pasta, working one at a time, and cut sheet into 3-inch squares. Place 1/2 tablespoon of filling in the center of each square. 4. Wet edges of pasta with warm water, then fold in half to form rectangles (or love letters). Press edges to seal. Put finished ravioli on a cookie sheet sprinkled with semolina. 5. To serve, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ravioli for 4-5 minutes. 6. With a slotted spoon, transfer ravioli to tomato sauce and toss to coat. Top with grated Parmigiano Reggiano and a drizzle of olive oil; toss again. Plate, then top with additional cheese and fresh basil. For Tomato Sauce: 1. Heat oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add a pinch of salt, then add garlic to the pan. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. 2. Stir in the tomatoes and cook down, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and finish by adding torn basil. Start Your Planning NOW! News! The DFB Guide to the 2017 Epcot Food & Wine Festival e-Book is now available for pre-order! And if you pre-order the 2017 edition, you get the 2016 edition (with TONS of great info!) for FREE!!! This 250+-page guide to the Festival offers insider tips and advice as well as all of the details you need to know to plan your best Festival visit ever. Your purchase includes several bonus items as well — including a full daily schedule of events at the Festival and a printable World Showcase Booth Menu Checklist to carry with you as you Eat around the World! Order your 2017 edition today and we’ll immediately send you the 2016 edition for FREE to get started on planning right away! Don’t miss a moment of the fun! Use code Chefs at check-out for a 20% discount! Be sure to stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for all of the latest coverage about the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival. We’ll have the details FIRST! Will you be making this delicious dish during the countdown to the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival? Leave a comment and let us know! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Epcot Food and Wine Festival Recipe: Shrimp on the Barbie from the Australia Booth Epcot Food and Wine Festival Recipe: Le Cellier’s White Truffle Butter Sauce Epcot Food and Wine Festival Recipe: Butter Chicken from the Africa Booth View the full article

Min and Bill’s Dockside Diner in Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a fun little hot spot for new menu options in Disney World. Whether it’s a favorite of yours, or you’re hearing about it for the first time, you’ve gotta be intrigued at this point. So check out our latest DFB Video highlighting some awesome finds at Min and Bill’s! Min & Bill’s Loaded Chili Cheese Nachos The menu is always changing here, but one thing’s for sure — we always find something tempting! While we haven’t seen any of the amazing seasonal milkshakes they’ve been known for lately, their Vanilla, Chocolate, and Kahlua versions are still worth your time. And who can resist a Foot Long Hot Dog with Pulled Pork on top? Meat + More Meat FTW. Check out the latest must have eats from Min and Bill’s in our DFB Video review! And if you love this video, there’s plenty more for you to enjoy over on our DFB YouTube Channel! By the way, have you subscribed yet? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to the channel and never miss a single episode. So check out the video and then let us know: what’s your favorite Min and Bill’s menu item? Share in comments below! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Spotted!: Cinnamon Sweet Churro Milkshake at Min and Bill’s Dockside Diner in Disney’s Hollywood Studios Review: Brand New Artisan Macaroni and Cheese (and Caramel Apple Shake) at Min & Bill’s Dockside Diner in Disney’s Hollywood Studios New DFB Video: Where to Find Your Favorite Starring Rolls Treats in Disney’s Hollywood Studios View the full article

Five years ago today, we welcomed guests to the new Disney California Adventure park. This special reopening included the new, soon-to-be guest favorites, Cars Land and Buena Vista Street. Take a look back at the spectacular celebration, in this video we posted that day: The night before, we celebrated the grand opening of Cars Land with the stars of Disney•Pixar’s “Cars”! Take a look back at the red carpet and opening celebration: What do you love most about Cars Land and Buena Vista Street? Were you there with us on opening day? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

One of the most fun interactive parts of visiting Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom (aside from the amazing attractions, dining at Satu’li Canteen, and shopping at Windtraders), is speaking Na’vi with the cast members who work in this amazing new land. Here’s a guide to help you prepare for your next visit. View the full article

While Disney•Pixar’s “Cars 3” doesn’t officially open in theaters until Friday, June 16, 400 Disney Parks Blog readers were treated to an early advance screening this past weekend. In “Cars 3,” the legendary Lightning McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) is blindsided by a new generation of blazing-fast racers and finds himself suddenly pushed out of the sport he loves. To get back in the game, he will need the help of an eager young race technician, Cruz Ramirez (voice of Cristela Alonzo), with her own plan to win, plus inspiration from the late Fabulous Hudson Hornet and a few unexpected turns. Proving that #95 isn’t through yet will test the heart of a champion on Piston Cup Racing’s biggest stage. Disney•Pixar’s “Cars 3” is directed by Brian Fee (storyboard artist “Cars,” “Cars 2“), produced by Kevin Reher (“A Bug’s Life,” “La Luna” short) and co-produced by Andrea Warren (“LAVA” short). Aside from an early preview of the film – and it’s accompanying short, “Lou,” – our guests were also welcomed by a surprise guest – one of the greats of motor racing history, Emerson Fittipaldi. Emerson, a guest of the Disney Parks Blog, stopped in to surprise the audience and happily posed for a few photos with guests after the film. For a look inside the meet-up and to hear what our guests are loving about “Cars 3,” check out the video above. View the full article

Ahoy there, mateys! Are ye courageous enough to venture into the 17th century when scalawags and buccaneers ruled the seas of the Spanish Main? For those brave (or foolish) enough to proceed, navigate to Pirates of the Caribbean at Magic Kingdom Park to begin your high-seas adventure. Beginning June 19, Disney PhotoPass Service will be at the helm ready to capture whether a pirate’s life is for you, or if you’re more likely to strike your colors and run up a white flag. As you prepare to exit a haunted grotto and dive into the Golden Age of Piracy, a Disney PhotoPass camera will capture the perfect treasure of your swashbuckling voyage. Properly warned ye be, says I! To preview, purchase and download this attraction photo, you must be wearing an active MagicBand linked to your My Disney Experience account. Your photo will be automatically associated to your account, where it can be viewed at MyDisneyPhotoPass.com and in the My Disney Experience mobile app alongside all of your vacation memories from Disney PhotoPass Service. Don’t maroon a single vacation photo – you can receive all of your Disney PhotoPass vacation photos from Walt Disney World Resort, including attraction photos, with Memory Maker.* Prepare to make sail! *Memory Maker is subject to the Memory Maker Terms and Conditions. Memory Maker includes photos taken during the applicable Memory Maker window. A MagicBand is required to receive certain attraction photos and other digital content. If Memory Maker purchased at the advance purchase price, any photos taken within 3 days from the date Memory Maker is purchased will not be included and must be purchased separately. Online registration required. Disney PhotoPass Photos in your account will expire pursuant to the expiration policy at Walt Disney World. Downloads are restricted to personal use only. Not responsible for missing, lost or damaged photos. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Valid theme park admission required for certain photo locations. View the full article

This summer, iconic Disneyland park attractions make their return with the reopening of “Fantasmic!,” the Rivers of America attractions and the Disneyland Railroad. We know these classic attractions – many of which have delighted guests since the park’s opening day – are very special to Disneyland park fans, and we are excited to celebrate their return. For 25 years, “Fantasmic!” has taken Disneyland park guests on a journey into Mickey Mouse’s imagination, and its return on July 17 – in celebration of the park’s 62nd anniversary – will bring new magic to this beloved nighttime spectacular! The treasured Disneyland park experience guests have loved for years, complete with its original fanfare and theme song, will be taken to brilliant new heights. New mist screens will combine with innovative, state-of-the-art projection technology for brighter and more vibrant visuals than ever before, and the show will feature new scenes inspired by Disney animated classics such as “Aladdin” and “The Lion King.” Also this summer, the classic Rivers of America attractions will reopen, starting with Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island this Friday, June 16, followed by Mark Twain Riverboat, Sailing Ship Columbia and Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes on July 29. For decades, guests have traveled the landscapes inspired by four of America’s majestic rivers: the Mississippi, the Columbia, the Missouri and the Rio Grande; each carefully recreated, complete with indigenous rock formations, natural forests and wildlife. The return of these watercraft will bring even more breathtaking views for guests to discover, including an enhanced adventure featuring the new Columbia Gorge section, highlighted by five picturesque waterfalls. Last year, we shared the artist’s rendering above, courtesy of Walt Disney Imagineering, showing the gorgeous new north bank of the Rivers of America, which will feature a beautiful new waterfront. This new waterfront will also include several elevated trestles over which the Disneyland Railroad will travel when it reopens along with the Rivers of America attractions on July 29. An icon for more than 60 years, the Disneyland Railroad holds a special place in the hearts of our guests, and we are excited to take them on the grand circle tour of Walt Disney’s original Magic Kingdom once again. This classic experience will also feature new and enhanced adventures! For the very first time, the Disneyland Railroad will make a left-hand turn to continue around Disneyland park, and I’m excited to tell you that Walt Disney’s legendary dioramas of the Grand Canyon and Primeval World have been carefully restored to their original splendor, with a bit of new magic added to both! Don’t miss this iconic summer as some of your favorite attractions return to Disneyland park. View the full article

Ten years ago this month, I started writing about Central Florida’s theme parks and attractions on a full-time basis. That’s a lot of sunscreen, re-hydrating and double-wide strollers, my friends. In a decade, there have been good days, tragic events, rampant rumors and unexpected developments.... View the full article

Starting July 17th, a brand new Fireworks Dessert Party is coming to Epcot. Replacing the IllumiNations Sparkling Dessert Party (its last date is listed for July 14th) will be the Frozen Ever After Sparkling Dessert Party, themed to — of course — the Frozen film and Frozen Ever After attraction in the Norway Pavilion. Frozen Ever After Entrance Held on select evenings, the experience will begin at World Showcase Plaza East one hour prior to IllumiNations, where guests will enjoy desserts, drinks, and views of Epcot’s nighttime spectacular, IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth, followed by a ride on the Frozen Ever After attraction. The dessert options (mostly sweet, with a few savory) may include items like Olaf’s Warm Double-chocolate S’mores Pudding Cake, Elsa’s Warm Cottage Pudding with Salted Caramel Glaze, Kristoff’s no-sugar-added Lemon Curd with Blueberry, and Anna’s Blue Velvet Cupcakes. More Frozen-themed Food is Coming to Epcot Other characters from the film will also get a nod with Wandering Oaken’s Eclairons, Hans’ Key Lime Tarts with red glitter glaze, Sven’s Fresh Fruits and Berries, and Grand Pabbie’s Winter-spiced Snack Mix. Duke of Weselton’s Cheese Fondue served with country bread cubes, broccoli and grilled flatbread and Living Rock Crispy Bon bons will round out the mix. Living Rock Crispy Bon Bons It sounds like many of the desserts will be similar to those found at the Frozen Dessert Party in Hollywood Studios a few years back. Take a look at our Frozen Dessert Party Review here. Specialty drinks will feature “Melted Snow,” beer, wine, and Summertime Cocktails such as pina coladas and margaritas. The cost is $79 for adults, and $47 for children (ages 3 to 9). Separate admission to Epcot is required. Interested guests may book the experience via the Walt Disney World website. What do you think of this new Dessert Party offering? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: NEWS! Epcot IllumiNations Sparkling Dessert Party Reservations NOW Available! News: Wishes Fireworks Dessert Party Takes Over FastPass Viewing Area in the Magic Kingdom First Look, Guest Review, and Photos! Epcot’s Sparkling IllumiNations Dessert Party View the full article

Ready for an emotional roller coaster? Because we have some good news and some bad news regarding Wolfgang Puck Grand Cafe and Dining Room. Learn About: Wolfgang Puck Cafe and The Dining Room Downtown Disney Disney World Restaurants I always think it’s best to get the bad news out of the way first, don’t you? So, here goes… The bad news is that Wolfgang Puck Grand Cafe will be closing up shop on August 1st. And now, for the good news! Wolfgang Puck is not leaving Disney Springs entirely! In case you missed the news, he’ll be opening a brand new, modern restaurant in the Town Center of Disney Springs. Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill will open in 2018, and it will still feature some of the world famous chef’s most popular dishes. PLUS, the West Side location will be revamped into Jaleo, a Spanish tapas-style restaurant by Celebrity Chef Jose Andres, which will open in 2018. So two restaurants for the price of one! So even after that announcement, I kept my recent Advance Dining Reservation at the Grand Cafe, since there will still be plenty more where this came from. AND I wanted to point out which items I most hope to see on the menu at the new digs! First, though, let’s check out the old haunt before saying good-bye to the West Side space. Atmosphere Wolfgang Puck Grand Cafe and The Dining Room are in the same general building, but there’s a cafe and a sushi bar downstairs, and a formal dining room upstairs. Plus, we can’t forget the Counter Service option with The Wolfgang Puck Express. (And don’t you worry, Express fans… the Marketplace Express location isn’t going anywhere!) The decor is… umm, how do I say this? Wolfgang Puck Cafe Seating TOTALLY SAVED BY THE BELL. I thought it the first time I walked in so many years ago, and it hasn’t changed an ounce. But, hey, it’s consistent — from colorful light fixtures to Formica tabletops. Bright dining room By the way, Zach Morris called. He wants his pastel colored triangles back. Wolfgang Puck Cafe Light Fixtures Wolfgang Puck Cafe Table Setting So, admittedly Puck’s does need a legitimate style overhaul. So in that sense, we are happy about the upcoming rebranding. But until August, guests can still enjoy the cheerful mosaics of the open kitchen. Wolfgang Puck Cafe Kitchen Even if you’re dining in the Cafe, you are in view of the staircase that brings guests to the more formal Dining Room. Wolfgang Puck Cafe Dining Room But we’re staying downstairs to check out what’s up at the Grand Cafe one last time! Eats The Cafe menu consistently features guest favorites (like PIZZA!!), though you’ll typically spot a few changes among the items surrounding the best known dishes, showcasing kitchen creativity alongside the greatest hits. Wolfgang Puck Cafe Menu If you’re thinking, “but, hey… where’s the Sushi?!” Fret not. It’s got its own menu. Wolfgang Puck Cafe Sushi Menu Wolfgang Puck Cafe Sushi Menu In fact, if your primary objective is grabbing some Sushi, you can even sit at the Sushi Bar. Wolfgang Puck Cafe Sushi Sign I bypassed the Sushi, though, in favor of the Butternut Squash Soup for my appetizer. This long-time Puck favorite deserves every positive thing that’s ever been said about it. Butternut Squash Soup The base is creamy, smooth, and sweet, relying on the dense flavor of the squash. The cream features a subtle hint of cardamom, which is a warm spice that pairs exceptionally well with the squash. I cannot stress this enough: ORDER THIS. As you may have already guessed, this is one of my hopeful picks for the new location. Next, I simply had to order some pizza. First up is the Italian Meats, topped with salami, pepperoni, soppresatta, and mortodella paired with cheese and red onion. Italian Meats Pizza The combo of salty, spicy meats and creamy cheese works very well, and the Italian meats were super flavorful. This was, honestly, one of my favorite bites of the night. And since Chef Puck is known as the original creator of BBQ Chicken Pizza, I had to get in on that, too! BBQ chicken, caramelized onions, and mozzarella. I ordered it as is for you, even though the final topper is my nemesis: cilantro. BBQ Chicken Pizza Fortunately, it was easy enough to pick off, and other than that, it’s nothing surprising or crazy. This was fine, and I know it’s a Puck signature. But I just didn’t love this one. The flavors didn’t work for me, and I kept going back to the Italian Meats pizza. That said, since Disney has stated that the upcoming Bar & Grill will “highlight the best of Puck’s signature dishes,” I’d be pretty floored if we don’t see this again. (Plus you can find it at the Marketplace Express.) My final entree selection was something that’s reached acclaim on the interwebs: Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf. A big slice of savory meatloaf is wrapped in smoky bacon and perched atop mashed potatoes. The finishing touches are crispy onion strings and a port wine reduction. Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf While I totally get why people love this (bacon wrapped around meatloaf — it’s sort of a no brainer!), I’m just not a huge fan. Meatloaf Close-Up I found the port wine sauce to be overpowering, so while the other components were certainly tasty, they also got a little lost in that sauce. I only managed a few bites and had to call it quits as I really wasn’t enjoying it at all. BUUUUT…now for the real winners of the night. Yeah. The plan was to go out big here! Dessert Menu The Key Lime Pie looks like a simple little circle of softly-colored creamy lime custard and a swirl of Swiss meringue. Because… well, that’s what it is . Key Lime Pie But y’all. It’s amazeballs! Tart. Sweet. Creamy. Textural. Beautiful. And, yes, I hope it’s at the new location (IMHO). I was wowed by this one — the tart/sweet balance was spot on. Key Lime Pie But I couldn’t stop there because I would have to be crazy to leave this restaurant without eating its best dish: Classic Carrot Cake. Of course, I order Carrot Cake anytime it’s on any menu. But here? Carrot Cake This one is exceptional. It always has been. This was one of my favorite desserts in Disney World even way back before I started the DFB. The moist cake is packed with flavor, and the cream cheese frosting is smooth and sweet. And those candied pecans on top? Sigh. Carrot Cake As much as I enjoy Carrot Cake pretty much anywhere, this one is really in a league of its own. I have to move on or I’ll be daydreaming about that cake for the rest of the day. So: Creme Brûlée, it is! This is another Puck signature. Creme Brulee Crackin’ sugar crust, juicy berries, sugary crisps, and some powdered sugar for kicks. Simple, but solid. That said, I’m not a huge creme brulee fan, so I probably wouldn’t order it again. Creme Brulee The last dessert of the night was a surprise. I’d expressed interest in the Dining Room’s Salted Caramel Pudding dessert item, and my server told me that I could order it downstairs!! So here you have salted caramel pudding, chocolate crumble (like cookies but more dense), and house-made whipped cream. So simple, but pretty amazing. Brownie Sundae It’s a pretty classic combo, and with good reason. The Carrot Cake is still THE must-get, but there’s something for pretty much everyone on that short list. Overall Wolfgang Puck Grand Cafe, I owe you an apology. I didn’t make near enough time for you over the years. All I ask is that you keep my favorite foods on your upcoming menu, and I promise — really! — that I’ll do better in the future. When I’m not at Homecomin’. Or Morimoto. Or BOATHOUSE. Wow. Even though it’s not news anymore, it’s still pretty impressive when you consider all the excellent dining additions that have joined Disney Springs over the last couple years. And this last meal at Wolfgang Puck Grand Cafe has given me high hopes for the upcoming Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill to be another great addition to the ever-growing list. Last chance, folks! If you’re in the Orlando area before the Grand Cafe closes its doors in August, you gotta get over there and order up. And I’ll leave you with just two words: CARROT CAKE. Are you a Wolfgang Puck fan? Let us know about your favorites in the comments! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News: Wine & Canvas Class Coming to Wolfgang Puck Café in Disney Springs News: Jaleo and Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill Opening in Disney Springs in 2018 Free Kids Entree Through Sept. 16th at Wolfgang Puck Cafe View the full article